About Us

Founded in 2006, Horniman Dance School was established by Principal Franca Maria Vinnicombe ARAD, RAD RTS, whose lifelong passion for dance continues to inspire every class we teach.

Franca began dancing at the age of six before training as a classical dancer at the prestigious Arts Educational School, where she graduated with a Diploma in Dance. Following her training, she enjoyed a successful professional performing career, dancing with a variety of companies across the UK.

Throughout her career, Franca has performed at renowned venues including the Churchill Theatre, the Broadway Theatre in London's West End, and the iconic London Palladium. Her wealth of professional experience and love of dance are at the heart of Horniman Dance School and reflected in our motto:

Learn. Dance. Live.

Today, Franca and fellow teachers Lisette Foster, Lauren Green and Jada Perry are proud to teach around 200 enthusiastic pupils each week, nurturing confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of dance in a welcoming and supportive environment.

At Horniman Dance School, we are committed to providing high-quality dance training through internationally recognised syllabi. We follow the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Ballet syllabus and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Tap and Modern Theatre syllabi, giving our students the opportunity to develop excellent technique while enjoying every step of their dance journey.